Complete UniFi + Wazuh Security Stack Guide 2026
Network Protection and Centralized Monitoring for Small Business
Learn to build a practical, cost-effective security stack using UniFi CyberSecure for network protection and Wazuh for endpoint monitoring, log analysis, and vulnerability management.
What This Guide Covers
This guide walks through building a practical, cost-effective security stack using UniFi CyberSecure for network-level protection and Wazuh for endpoint monitoring, log analysis, and vulnerability management. You'll learn why this two-component approach often works better than complex multi-tool setups, how to implement each component, and whether this combination fits your organization's needs.
Coverage Areas
Network-Level Protection
UniFi CyberSecure for network boundary monitoring and filtering
Endpoint Monitoring
Wazuh for log analysis, vulnerability management, and compliance
Integration Strategy
How the two-component approach creates comprehensive coverage
What You'll Learn
- Why two components work better than many: Understanding the strategic advantage of focused, complementary tools over complex multi-tool environments
- Complete implementation methodology: Step-by-step deployment process for both UniFi CyberSecure and Wazuh components, building on proven cybersecurity roadmap principles
- Integration strategies: How to connect UniFi network monitoring with Wazuh endpoint analysis for comprehensive visibility
- Cost analysis and ROI: Detailed breakdown of implementation costs compared to commercial alternatives
- Organizational fit assessment: How to determine if this approach matches your technical capabilities and business requirements
- Performance optimization: Best practices for tuning both components for maximum effectiveness with minimal resource impact
Key Benefits
Cost Effectiveness: This approach typically costs 40-70% less than commercial alternatives while providing comparable customization and control capabilities. Most small businesses can implement comprehensive monitoring for under $5,000 annually.
Comprehensive Coverage: The combination eliminates tool redundancy while covering all essential security functions: network perimeter protection, endpoint monitoring, log analysis, vulnerability detection, and compliance reporting.
The Strategic Advantage: Why UniFi + Wazuh?
Most small businesses accumulate security tools that overlap in functionality, creating complexity without proportional security benefits. The UniFi + Wazuh combination provides complementary capabilities—eliminating redundancy while covering all essential security functions at 40-70% less cost than commercial alternatives.
Network Layer (UniFi)
- Perimeter traffic analysis
- Threat signature matching
- Automated blocking of malicious IPs
- DNS query monitoring
- Network anomaly detection
Everything Else (Wazuh)
- Endpoint monitoring and analysis
- Log collection and correlation
- Vulnerability scanning
- Compliance reporting
- Incident response workflows
Why This Approach Works
Clear Boundaries
UniFi owns network perimeter, Wazuh owns everything internal. No confusion about which tool handles what.
Reduced Complexity
Two tools to learn and maintain instead of five or more overlapping solutions.
Defense in Depth
Network filtering catches threats before they reach systems; endpoint monitoring catches what gets through.
Component 1: Network Protection with UniFi CyberSecure
UniFi CyberSecure transforms your existing UniFi gateway into an enterprise-grade network security appliance. Rather than adding separate hardware, you enable advanced threat detection capabilities through a subscription service that continuously analyzes network traffic patterns against Proofpoint's threat intelligence database. For detailed UniFi product analysis, see our comprehensive UniFi IT solutions review.
UniFi Hardware Selection Guide
Gateway Options
Dream Machine Pro
Best entry point for most small businesses
Dream Machine SE
Mid-tier option with integrated switching
Dream Machine Pro Max
High-performance option for larger deployments
Budget & Enterprise Options
Budget Options: The Cloud Gateway Ultra ($129) and Cloud Gateway Max ($299) support CyberSecure Standard for very small deployments (under 10 users), though with lower IPS throughput.
Enterprise Options: UXG series gateways are designed for 100+ endpoint environments requiring dedicated hardware and enterprise-grade performance.
Technical Capabilities
Threat Detection Scale
Enterprise: 95,000+ signatures
Updates: 30-50 new signatures weekly
Covers 53 distinct threat categories including malware, botnet, and data exfiltration.
Implementation Approach
2. Gradual Enforcement: Enable blocking for high-confidence threat categories first.
3. Performance Monitoring: CyberSecure uses gateway resources - monitor during deployment.
CyberSecure Subscription Costs
CyberSecure Tiers
| Feature | Standard CyberSecure | Enterprise CyberSecure |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost | $99/year | $499/year |
| Threat Signatures | 55,000+ | 95,000+ |
| Hardware Compatibility | Most UniFi gateways | Pro Max / UXG required |
Network Visibility & SSL Inspection
UniFi CyberSecure offers multiple inspection modes for different security requirements:
Traffic Metadata Analysis (Default):
- Identifies communication with known malicious IP addresses
- Detects suspicious DNS queries and responses
- Monitors for lateral movement within your network
- Blocks connections to command-and-control infrastructure
- Analyzes traffic volume and timing patterns
- Local processing for data privacy preservation
Full HTTPS Inspection (Available): UniFi introduced License-Free NeXT AI SSL Inspection in Network 8.x/9.x, enabling full decryption and inspection of HTTPS traffic on compatible gateways (Dream Machine Pro Max, UXG series).
SSL Inspection Requirements
To enable full HTTPS visibility:
- Install the UniFi SSL certificate on all monitored endpoints
- Configure SSL inspection policy in UniFi Network settings
- Exempt sensitive applications (banking, healthcare) as needed
- Plan for 10-20% additional gateway CPU overhead
SSL inspection is optional but recommended for organizations requiring visibility into encrypted traffic content.
Component 2: Comprehensive Monitoring with Wazuh
Wazuh serves as your security operations center, collecting and analyzing data from across your environment. Unlike network-focused tools, Wazuh provides deep visibility into individual systems, applications, and user activities through comprehensive log analysis and endpoint monitoring.
Core Capabilities
Endpoint Monitoring
Tracks file changes, process execution, user logins, and system configurations on individual devices through lightweight agents
Log Analysis
Processes logs from servers, applications, network devices, and cloud services to identify security events and compliance violations
Vulnerability Detection
Scans systems for missing patches, misconfigurations, and known security weaknesses without requiring separate vulnerability scanning tools
Compliance Reporting
Maps security controls to frameworks like NIST, PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR, generating audit-ready reports
Architecture Options
Self-Hosted Deployment
Advantages:
- Complete control over data and infrastructure
- No ongoing cloud service costs
- Customizable to specific requirements
Considerations:
- Requires technical expertise for setup
- Ongoing maintenance responsibility
Cost: Infrastructure costs only
Cloud-Hosted Service
Advantages:
- Managed infrastructure and updates
- Easier scaling and maintenance
- Professional support available
Considerations:
- Higher ongoing costs
- Less control over infrastructure
Cost: Partner-hosted: $200-500/month. Official Wazuh Cloud: typically $500+/month for direct support.
Hybrid Approach
Combine both approaches: Run core components locally with cloud-based analytics and reporting for easier management and scalability. This provides control over sensitive data while leveraging managed services for complex analysis.
Agent Deployment Strategy
Wazuh agents should be installed on critical systems first, then expanded based on risk assessment:
Priority 1 - Critical Infrastructure:
- Domain controllers, File servers, Email servers, Public-facing web applications
Priority 2 - Important Systems:
- User workstations, Database servers, Backup systems
Priority 3 - Supporting Systems:
- Development systems, Test environments, Non-critical servers
Network Appliances: Syslog, Not Agents
Important: You cannot install Wazuh agents directly on UniFi Dream Machines or most network appliances. These devices are monitored via Syslog forwarding (UDP 514), not agent installation.
Syslog Sources (no agent required):
- UniFi gateways and switches
- Firewalls and routers
- Wireless access points
- IoT devices and network appliances
Configure these devices to forward logs to Wazuh via standard Syslog protocol.
Integration Capabilities
Wazuh integrates with numerous security tools and platforms:
- Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud for cloud security monitoring
- Network Devices: Firewalls, Switches, Wireless controllers for infrastructure logs
- Applications: Web servers, Databases, Email systems for application security
- Threat Intelligence: External feeds and custom indicators for enhanced detection
How UniFi and Wazuh Work Together
The UniFi + Wazuh combination creates defense in depth without functional overlap. UniFi handles network perimeter protection while Wazuh monitors everything inside, providing complete incident context through integrated analysis.
UniFi Handles Network Perimeter
- Traffic pattern analysis
- Malicious IP blocking
- DNS query monitoring
Wazuh Handles Everything Inside
- Endpoint activity monitoring
- Application log analysis
- File integrity monitoring
Data Integration
Configure your UniFi gateway to send security logs to Wazuh for centralized analysis. This integration provides unified incident context and correlation capabilities:
Technical Integration Note
UniFi → Wazuh Connection: UniFi gateways send logs via standard Syslog (UDP port 514). You cannot install a Wazuh agent directly on the Dream Machine.
Setup Steps:
- In UniFi Network: Settings → System → Remote Logging → Enable Syslog
- Enter your Wazuh manager IP address and port 514
- In Wazuh: Configure
/var/ossec/etc/ossec.confto accept remote Syslog - Create custom decoders for UniFi log format
Port Reference:
- UDP 514: Syslog from network devices (UniFi, firewalls)
- TCP 1514: Wazuh agent communication (endpoints only)
- TCP 55000: Wazuh API access
Integration Benefits
Unified Timeline
See network events alongside endpoint activities in a single dashboard
Correlation Capabilities
Connect network anomalies with specific system behaviors
Complete Incident Context
Understand both how attacks arrive and what they do once inside
Practical Integration Example
Attack Detection Flow
Implementation Roadmap
This four-phase roadmap guides you through a systematic deployment that minimizes business disruption while building comprehensive security coverage. Each phase builds on the previous one, ensuring a stable foundation before adding complexity.
Implementation Phases
Time Investment by Phase
Implementation Time Estimates
| Feature | Initial Configuration | Weekly Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1: Network Foundation | 6-8 hours | 2-3 hours |
| Phase 2: Monitoring Infrastructure | 16-24 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Phase 3: Agent Rollout | 12-16 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Phase 4: Integration | 8-12 hours | 2-3 hours |
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Enabling blocking mode too early without understanding traffic
- Deploying too many agents simultaneously
- Skipping the monitoring and tuning phase
- Insufficient resource allocation for initial setup
Cost Analysis
This approach typically costs 40-70% less than commercial alternatives while providing comparable customization and control capabilities. The wide cost range reflects different deployment choices between self-hosted and managed services. For additional cost-effective security strategies, see our cybersecurity on budget guide.
Year One Total Cost
UniFi CyberSecure
Annual subscription cost
Wazuh Self-Hosted
Infrastructure costs only
Wazuh Cloud-Hosted
Managed service option
Implementation Costs
Professional Implementation: 40-60 hours at $100/hour = $4,000-6,000
Total First Year Range: $4,139-42,499
Most small businesses can implement comprehensive monitoring for under $10,000 first year including professional implementation.
Ongoing Annual Costs
Annual Cost Breakdown
| Feature | Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UniFi CyberSecure | $99-499 | Expect 5-10% annual increases |
| Wazuh Cloud-Hosted | $6,000-36,000 | Official ~$500+/mo; partner-hosted lower |
| Maintenance Time | $7,200-9,600 | 6-8 hours monthly at $100/hour |
Total Ongoing Range: $2,139-45,599 annually
Comparable Alternatives
Alternative Solutions
| Feature | This Approach | Managed SIEM | Enterprise Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost | $2,139-45,599 | $5,000-15,000 | $15,000-50,000 |
| Customization | Full control | Limited | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Internal effort | Fully managed | Vendor supported |
When This Approach Makes Sense
The UniFi + Wazuh approach works best for organizations seeking enterprise-grade security capabilities without enterprise-level complexity or costs. This combination is particularly effective for mid-sized businesses with basic IT capabilities and clear security objectives.
Ideal Organizations
Size: 10-250 endpoints
Perfect scale for comprehensive monitoring without enterprise complexity. Small enough to implement without dedicated security team, large enough to justify investment.
Technical Capability
Organizations with basic IT infrastructure management capabilities, understanding of network concepts, and willingness to invest time in learning new security tools.
Budget Constraints
Need professional security monitoring without enterprise costs. Seeking alternatives to expensive managed security services while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Compliance Requirements
Must demonstrate security controls for industry compliance (HIPAA, PCI DSS, etc.). Need audit trails and security reporting capabilities.
Choose This Approach If
- You have 10-250 endpoints to monitor
- Internal IT team with basic networking knowledge
- Budget constraints but security requirements
- Existing or planned UniFi network infrastructure
- Need compliance documentation and audit trails
Consider Alternatives If
- Very small organization (under 10 endpoints)
- Large enterprise (over 500 endpoints)
- Limited technical expertise available
- Require immediate enterprise-level support
- Highly regulated industry with specific tool requirements
When to Consider Alternatives
Alternative Scenarios
Very Small Organizations (Under 10 endpoints): UniFi CyberSecure alone may provide sufficient protection. Wazuh deployment overhead may exceed benefits.
Large Enterprises (Over 500 endpoints): May require more sophisticated features, dedicated security teams, and enterprise support.
Limited Technical Expertise: Self-hosted Wazuh requires ongoing technical maintenance. Consider managed SIEM services or cloud-hosted Wazuh providers.
Technical Requirements Assessment
Successful implementation requires specific hardware, software, and skill prerequisites. Understanding these requirements upfront ensures smooth deployment and ongoing operation of both UniFi CyberSecure and Wazuh components.
UniFi Infrastructure Prerequisites
Gateway Requirements:
- Most Small Businesses: Dream Machine Pro, Dream Machine SE, Dream Machine Pro Max
- Enterprise Deployments: UXG-Pro, UXG-Max, UXG-Enterprise, Cloud Gateway Max
Network Coverage: UniFi switching and wireless recommended for full visibility
Connectivity: Reliable internet for signature updates, administrative access to UniFi console
Wazuh Infrastructure Prerequisites
Server Resources
| Feature | Wazuh Manager | Wazuh Indexer | Wazuh Dashboard |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | 4+ cores | 4+ cores | 2+ cores |
| RAM | 4+ GB | 8+ GB | 4+ GB |
| Storage | 50+ GB | 100+ GB | 20+ GB |
Network Connectivity:
- Agents must reach Wazuh manager on port 1514 (TCP)
- Manager API access on port 55000 for configuration
- Dashboard web interface on port 443/80
Supported Platforms:
- Linux (Recommended): Ubuntu 20.04+, CentOS 8+, RHEL 8+, Debian 10+
- Windows Server: Windows Server 2016+, Windows 10+
Skill Requirements
Required Skills
| Feature | Level | Key Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Network Administration | Intermediate | Firewall rules, VLANs, routing |
| System Administration | Intermediate | Server apps, permissions |
| Log Analysis | Basic to Intermediate | Interpret logs, detection rules |
| Incident Response | Basic | Security patterns, procedures |
Scaling Considerations
Deployment Scaling
| Feature | Hardware | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Small (10-50 endpoints) | Single Wazuh server, Dream Machine Pro | Minimal resource requirements |
| Medium (50-150 endpoints) | Dedicated Wazuh cluster, Dream Machine Pro Max | Advanced rule customization needed |
| Large (150+ endpoints) | Multi-node Wazuh cluster, UXG Enterprise | High availability, dedicated security team |
Planning Recommendation
Start with requirements for your current environment plus 25-50% capacity for growth. Both UniFi and Wazuh can scale incrementally, but initial over-provisioning prevents performance issues during expansion.
Security Coverage Analysis
Understanding what this security stack protects against—and where additional tools may be needed—helps you make informed decisions about your overall security posture and future investments. For comprehensive security planning guidance, reference our NIST CSF 2.0 implementation guide.
What This Stack Protects Against
Protection Areas
Network-Based Threats
Malware downloads, Botnet communication, Data exfiltration, Lateral movement - monitored by UniFi CyberSecure
Endpoint Threats
File-based malware, Unauthorized access, Privilege escalation, Data theft - detected by Wazuh
Configuration Issues
Weak passwords, Missing patches, Misconfigured services, Compliance violations - identified by Wazuh
Insider Threats
Unusual access patterns, Unauthorized file changes, Policy violations, Privilege abuse - monitored by Wazuh
Coverage Strengths
Security Coverage
| Feature | Coverage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Network Visibility | 95% | Near-complete network traffic visibility |
| Deep Endpoint Monitoring | 90% | Detailed system and application monitoring |
| Compliance Documentation | 85% | Automated reporting for major frameworks |
| Cost Effectiveness | 95% | Enterprise capabilities at SMB pricing |
Coverage Gaps to Consider
Areas Requiring Additional Tools
Email Security (High Impact): Requires additional email security solution for comprehensive phishing protection. Consider Microsoft Defender for Office 365, Proofpoint, or Mimecast.
Web Application Security (Medium-High Impact): May need dedicated WAF for public-facing applications. Consider Cloudflare WAF, AWS WAF, or F5.
Mobile Device Management (Medium Impact): Limited visibility into mobile devices. Consider Microsoft Intune, VMware Workspace ONE, or Jamf Pro for BYOD environments.
Cloud Security (Medium-High Impact): Additional tools needed for comprehensive cloud workload protection. Consider AWS GuardDuty, Azure Sentinel, or Google Security Command Center.
Expanding Coverage Over Time
Multi-Year Security Investment
| Feature | Focus | Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Network + endpoint monitoring foundation | $4,000-15,000 |
| Year 2 | Email security and backup monitoring | $2,000-8,000 |
| Year 3 | Cloud security and advanced threat hunting | $3,000-12,000 |
| Year 4 | Specialized compliance tools | $2,000-10,000 |
Common Implementation Challenges
Understanding typical implementation challenges and their solutions helps you plan effectively and avoid common pitfalls that can delay deployment or reduce effectiveness.
Primary Implementation Challenges
Technical Complexity (High Impact)
Each component requires different skill sets and ongoing maintenance. Plan for learning curve time and consider managed services if internal expertise is limited.
Solutions:
- Invest in training for key team members
- Start with basic configurations and expand gradually
- Document all configuration changes and procedures
- Consider managed services for complex components
- Build relationships with vendors for technical support
Time to Resolve: 2-6 months
Alert Fatigue (Medium Impact)
Initial configurations often generate too many alerts. Budget time for tuning rules and thresholds to focus on actionable events.
Solutions:
- Start with high-confidence detection rules only
- Implement alert prioritization and categorization
- Tune alert thresholds based on baseline behavior
- Create escalation procedures for different alert types
- Regular review and refinement of alert rules
Time to Resolve: 1-3 months
Integration Difficulties (Medium Impact)
Connecting UniFi logs to Wazuh requires network configuration and log parsing rules. Document all integration steps for troubleshooting.
Solutions:
- Follow official integration documentation carefully
- Test integration in lab environment first
- Create detailed network diagrams and configuration guides
- Implement monitoring for integration health
- Maintain backup communication channels
Time to Resolve: 2-4 weeks
Preventive Measures by Phase
Pre-Implementation
- Create detailed project timeline with buffer time
- Establish relationships with vendors and support communities
- Plan infrastructure capacity for current and future needs
- Develop incident response procedures before deployment
Post-Implementation
- Establish maintenance windows for updates and changes
- Create automated health checks for all components
- Plan regular training updates for team members
- Develop long-term scaling and evolution strategy
Success Factors
Key Success Factors
| Feature | Importance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Realistic Timeline Expectations | Critical | Allow 6-12 months for full implementation |
| Dedicated Team Member | High | Assign one person as primary administrator |
| Change Management Process | High | Document and test all config changes |
| Vendor Relationship Management | Medium | Maintain community relationships |
| Performance Monitoring | Medium | Continuously monitor system performance |
Performance Optimization
Optimizing performance ensures your security stack operates efficiently without impacting network performance or overwhelming system resources. Focus on configuration tuning and proactive monitoring.
UniFi CyberSecure Optimization
Optimization Options
| Feature | Impact | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Enable Memory Optimized Mode | Reduces memory 20-30% | Console → Settings → Security → Advanced |
| Tune Signature Categories | Reduces overhead and false positives | Disable low-priority, enable industry-specific |
| Monitor Gateway Performance | Maintains network performance | Regular CPU/memory/throughput monitoring |
| Schedule Signature Updates | Prevents network disruption | Configure off-hours updates (2-4 AM) |
Wazuh Performance Tuning
Agent Configuration:
- High-value systems: Log collection every 30 seconds
- Standard systems: Log collection every 60-120 seconds
- Focus file integrity monitoring on critical directories only
- Critical systems rootcheck: Every 2 hours
- Standard systems rootcheck: Every 6-12 hours
Index Management:
- Security logs retention: 90 days
- System logs retention: 30 days
- Debug logs retention: 7 days
- Enable compression for indices older than 7 days
Rule Efficiency:
- Use specific field matching, avoid regex where possible
- Combine related alerts using time-based correlation windows
- Order decoders by frequency, optimize regex patterns
Performance Monitoring Targets
Performance Thresholds
| Feature | Target | Concern Threshold | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gateway CPU Usage | < 70% average | > 85% sustained | Optimize memory, reduce signatures |
| Gateway Memory Usage | < 80% average | > 90% sustained | Optimize memory, upgrade gateway |
| Network Throughput | > 90% baseline | < 80% baseline | Adjust IPS/IDS settings |
| Wazuh Manager CPU | < 60% average | > 80% sustained | Optimize agents, add nodes |
| Alert Processing Time | < 5 seconds | > 30 seconds | Optimize rules, increase resources |
Performance Optimization Strategy
Start with conservative configurations and gradually increase monitoring intensity based on your infrastructure capacity. Regular performance review ensures your security tools enhance rather than hinder business operations.
Measuring Success
Establish clear metrics to track the effectiveness of your security stack and demonstrate value to stakeholders. Focus on security outcomes, operational efficiency, and business impact.
Security Metrics
Security Performance Metrics
| Feature | Good Target | Excellent Target | Measurement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Time to Detection (MTTD) | < 15 minutes | < 5 minutes | Threat activity to first alert |
| Mean Time to Response (MTTR) | < 4 hours | < 1 hour | Alert to incident containment |
| False Positive Rate | < 20% | < 10% | False / total alerts (30 days) |
| Coverage Percentage | 85%+ | 95%+ | Monitored / total critical assets |
Business Impact Metrics
ROI Indicators
Security ROI
Typical 40-70% cost savings compared to managed alternatives. Calculated as (Managed service cost - Internal cost) / Internal cost × 100%
Incident Cost Avoidance
Typically $50,000-200,000 annually. Includes malware infections prevented, data breaches avoided, and downtime reduction.
Compliance Efficiency
60-80% reduction in audit preparation time through automated reporting, continuous monitoring, and evidence collection.
Team Productivity
20-40 hours/month savings from automated alerting, centralized monitoring, and streamlined investigations.
Reporting Framework
Reporting by Audience
| Feature | Frequency | Key Metrics | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executive Leadership | Monthly | ROI, Incident cost, Compliance | High-level dashboard |
| IT Management | Weekly | Uptime, Alert trends, Coverage | Operational dashboard |
| Security Team | Daily | MTTD, MTTR, False positives | Detailed operational metrics |
| Compliance/Audit | Quarterly | Compliance, Coverage, Controls | Formal reports with evidence |
Success Measurement Strategy
Establish baseline measurements within the first month, then track improvements quarterly. Focus on trend analysis rather than absolute numbers, and adjust targets based on your organization's maturity and resources.
Getting Started Checklist
A systematic approach to implementing your UniFi + Wazuh security stack. Following this checklist ensures you're prepared for successful deployment and ongoing operation.
Pre-Implementation Assessment
Pre-Implementation Tasks
| Feature | Importance | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Complete free security assessment | Critical | 2-4 hours |
| Inventory existing network infrastructure | High | 4-6 hours |
| Choose appropriate Dream Machine model | High | 2-3 hours |
| Assess internal technical capabilities | High | 3-4 hours |
| Secure budget approval | Critical | 1-2 weeks |
| Define success metrics and reporting | Medium | 2-3 hours |
Month 1 Preparation Tasks
- Purchase and deploy Dream Machine Pro/SE/Pro Max - Dependencies: Budget approval, hardware selection
- Subscribe to UniFi CyberSecure service - Dependencies: Dream Machine deployed
- Download and deploy UniFi SSL certificate - Optional but recommended for full HTTPS inspection (requires endpoint deployment)
- Plan Wazuh deployment architecture - Dependencies: Technical assessment completed
- Create implementation timeline - Dependencies: Team assessment completed
- Set up monitoring and alerting channels - Dependencies: Team responsibilities assigned
Hardware Selection Quick Reference
Gateway Options Quick Reference
Cloud Gateway Ultra
Budget entry for under 10 endpoints
Dream Machine Pro
Best for 10-50 endpoints
Dream Machine SE
Growing businesses
Dream Machine Pro Max
50+ endpoints
Implementation Support Resources
- Official Documentation: Free online documentation from UniFi and Wazuh - essential for implementation
- Community Forums: Active communities for troubleshooting and best practices
- Professional Services: Third-party specialists at $150-300/hour for faster implementation
- Training Resources: $500-2000 per person for long-term operational capability
Key Success Factor
This two-component approach provides enterprise-grade security capabilities while remaining practical and cost-effective for growing organizations. Success depends on realistic planning, adequate resource allocation, and commitment to ongoing maintenance and improvement.
Alternative Deployment Scenarios
Choose the scenario that matches your current needs with room to grow into more comprehensive coverage as requirements and budget expand. Each approach provides a foundation for future enhancement.
Deployment Scenarios Overview
Scenario 1: Minimal Budget Startup
Hardware: Dream Machine Pro + CyberSecure Standard ($99/year)
Software: Wazuh self-hosted on existing infrastructure
First Year Cost: Under $500 plus hardware ($379)
Best For: Startups with technical expertise but limited budget
Scenario 2: Growing Business
Hardware: Dream Machine Pro Max + CyberSecure Enterprise ($499/year)
Software: Wazuh cloud-hosted for easier maintenance
First Year Cost: $3,500-15,000 including hardware
Best For: Growing companies needing scalable security
Scenario 3: Compliance-Focused Organization
50+ Endpoints
Hardware: Dream Machine Pro Max with full UniFi network infrastructure
Software: Wazuh with advanced compliance modules and professional services
First Year Cost: $8,000-25,000 including comprehensive infrastructure
Best For: Organizations with strict compliance requirements and budget for professional services
Scenario Comparison Matrix
Deployment Scenario Comparison
| Feature | Minimal Budget | Growing Business | Compliance-Focused |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | Under $500 + hardware | $3,500-15,000 | $8,000-25,000 |
| Technical Complexity | High (self-managed) | Medium (hybrid) | Low (professionally managed) |
| Ongoing Maintenance | High internal effort | Moderate effort | Low internal effort |
| Scalability | Limited without investment | Good with planning | Excellent |
| Compliance Support | Basic reporting | Standard features | Advanced automation |
Migration Paths
Minimal Budget → Growing Business:
- Triggers: Scaling beyond 25 endpoints, need for easier maintenance, budget availability increases
- Steps: Upgrade to Dream Machine Pro Max, migrate to cloud-hosted Wazuh, add comprehensive monitoring
- Timeframe: 6-12 months planning
Growing Business → Compliance-Focused:
- Triggers: Regulatory requirements, need for professional support, enterprise-grade needs
- Steps: Add compliance modules, implement professional services, expand infrastructure coverage
- Timeframe: 3-6 months planning
Our Verdict
The UniFi + Wazuh combination offers comprehensive security coverage at 40-70% less cost than commercial alternatives. Success requires realistic planning, adequate technical resources, and commitment to ongoing maintenance. For organizations with 10-250 endpoints and basic IT capabilities, this approach provides the best balance of capability, cost, and control.
Ready to Build Your Security Stack?
Start with the foundation that fits your current needs and scale as your organization grows. The UniFi + Wazuh combination provides enterprise-grade security at small business prices.
Hardware prices and subscription costs verified January 2026.